Home to Fort Benning, Columbus State University and one of the largest contiguous historic districts in the country, it’s no wonder Columbus, Ga., provides a plethora of historic, educational and outdoor diversions. The area’s rich cultural offerings and the Chattahoochee River, which lines the city on the west, are easily accessible, making Columbus the perfect locale for a weekend of fun with the whole family.

STAY: The beautifully adorned Rothschild-Pound House Inn offers all the comforts and personality expected from a bed-and-breakfast in a refined, historic setting that still feels luxe. In the mood to indulge? Either a rose-petal bath or a wine-and-cheese tasting is a decadent way to unwind after a day of exploring. In the morning, a multicourse breakfast is served in your room, on the wraparound porch or in the main dining room, depending on your preference.

EAT: Go back in time with a meal at the Broadway location of Country’s Barbecue, housed in a 1930s Greyhound bus station. You can belly up to the milkshake bar for a cool treat, listen to some of your favorite golden oldies on the jukebox and even dine in a vintage bus connected to the diner. If you’re in the mood for a gourmet burger or a steak customized with your choice of toppers, visit Downstairs at the Loft and enjoy your meal on the patio or in the historic dining room. Or if the city’s river views have you craving sea fare, The Market is renowned for its menu of fresh-seafood favorites, which changes daily.

LEARN: Stroll through the stately Columbus ­Museum’s permanent collection for a visual display of American art’s evolution through paintings, sculpture, decorative pieces and regional artifacts. Be sure to catch the stunning, 20-foot-long installation by famed glass artist Dale Chihuly. You can reach for the stars at the Coca-Cola Space Science Center, where telescopes in the Mead Observatory grant breathtaking views, and flight simulators in the Challenger Learning Center offer virtual voyages to Mars, the moon and beyond. The center’s Omnisphere Theater — one of the world’s most advanced digital, full-dome, video-immersive theaters — also plays a variety of educational films. Military enthusiasts can experience a day in the life of an American infantryman by taking part in a high-speed mission in combat simulators at the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center or by stepping aboard a full-scale replica of the USS Water Witch at the National Civil War Naval Museum, which houses recovered artifacts and traveling exhibits and hosts regular programs and events.

DO: Experience a diverse mix of classical musicians, Broadway shows and modern entertainers at the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts or at the Springer Opera House. On Friday nights, the opera house hosts Springer’s No Shame Theater, featuring fresh faces who perform acts ranging from stand-up comedy to poetry readings. Or head outdoors to get your nature fix along the city’s 22-mile RiverWalk, a brick-lined bike path and walkway that renders peaceful vistas of the Chattahoochee River.

COMING SOON: Last year, two city dams were breached, returning the natural flow of the Chattahoochee River and creating the longest urban white-water course in the world. Come August, visitors will be able to raft, kayak and canoe 2.4 miles of rapids ranging from Class 1 to Class 4. Go to www.columbusgawhitewater.com for more information.